Vision Services in a Novel Embedded, Multidisciplinary Allied Health Model of Care for Older People in Nursing Homes

Background: Vision is essential for ageing well, supporting the independence and quality of life of older people. The aim of this study is to define the role of an optometrist in an embedded allied health multidisciplinary team (EAHOP). Methods: This was a mixed-methods implementation study conducted within a pragmatic paradigm with optometrists conducting comprehensive vision and eye health assessments for all residents. The impact of visual function was measured using the National Eye Institute Visual Functioning Questionnaire–25 (NEI VFQ-25). Results: Twenty-nine of the 36 recruited participants opted in for optometry assessments. Vision impairment was identified in most participants (65%), defined as best-corrected visual acuity > 0.3 logMAR in the better eye. Participants with vision impairment had lower scores on vision-specific items on NEI VFQ-25 than those without impairment but scored higher for general health items (45.6 ± 6.8 vs. 39.4 ± 15.3); however, the NEI VFQ-25 has not been validated in this population. Optometry interventions were provided for 24 (82.7%) of the participants who received assessments, including new or updated spectacle prescriptions, referrals to ophthalmologists, eye care, vision aids, and environmental modification. Conclusions: This novel study suggests the important role of optometrists in promoting eye health and vision assessment in nursing homes, and the value of their inclusion in multidisciplinary teams.